Yoakam Shares How His Son Inspired the Title Track of New Album ‘Brighter Days’
Country music legend Dwight Yoakam has unveiled his 21st studio album, Brighter Days, marking his first collection of original material in nearly a decade. Among the album’s highlights is the heartfelt title track, co-written with his four-year-old son, Dalton Yoakam.
In a recent interview, Yoakam shared the touching story behind the song’s creation. He recounted a moment when Dalton entered the room with a Fender Telecaster-shaped ukulele and said, “Get your guitar.” Moved by his son’s enthusiasm, Yoakam picked up his guitar and began singing, “Brighter days are up ahead,” to which Dalton responded by singing along. This spontaneous exchange laid the foundation for the song, capturing a father’s love and hope for his child’s future.
Brighter Days reflects Yoakam’s personal and professional evolution. Since his last album, he married photographer Emily Joyce and embraced fatherhood with the birth of Dalton in 2020. These life changes have infused his music with renewed depth and authenticity.
The album also features collaborations with notable artists, including Post Malone on the track “I Don’t Know How to Say Goodbye (Bang Bang Boom Boom).” Additionally, Yoakam offers his renditions of classics like the Carter Family’s “Keep On The Sunny Side” and Cake’s “Bound Away,” showcasing his versatility and reverence for musical traditions.
Brighter Days is available now across major music platforms. Fans can also enjoy the title track on YouTube: